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Why does electrical engineering maintain its status as one of the ‘evergreen branches of engineering’? The answer extends beyond its practical applications; it resides in the profound impact it has on shaping our modern world. Beyond being a profession, electrical engineering stands resolutely at the forefront of technological development, influencing industries such as robotics, transport, manufacturing, and healthcare. This article serves as your guide to mastering The Top 20 Electrical Engineering Interview questions.
As you prepare for an electrical engineering interview, it’s crucial to understand that the interviewer isn’t merely testing your rote learning skills. Instead, they’re assessing your ability to comprehend basic concepts. So, let’s delve into the fundamentals and unravel the secrets behind electrical engineering.
The article is not just talking about theoretical queries; it’s delving into the core concepts that define electrical engineering. Whether you’re a seasoned professional seeking to refresh your knowledge or a recent graduate stepping into the realm of electrical engineering, these questions serve as a valuable resource. These questions will not only help you revise the basics but also enhance your understanding of electrical engineering.
Basic Electrical Engineering Interview Questions with Answers
Here is a list of electrical interview questions and answers that you might face during the interview.
Q. What part of an atom is valence?
The outermost shell of the atom is the valence.
Q. Define the concepts of inductance and capacitance.
The capacitor helps in the storage of the capacitance at the measured voltage. Inductance is the coil’s resistance generated by a change in the current. When a second coil opposes the effect of the charge in the first coil, it leads to mutual inductance.
Q. What is the effect of placing two positively charged materials next to each other?
As positives repel and opposites attract. Therefore, if two positively charged materials are placed next to each other, then the two materials will repel. And move away from each other.
Q. Mention the three different types of cables used in transmissions.
Different types of cables that are used in transmission:
1. Low Tension (up to 1000 volts)
2. High Tension (up to 23000 volts)
3. Super Tension (up to 132 kV)
These wires can be categorized based on their voltage and thermal capacity.
Q. Define reverse polarity and the process of fixing it.
Reverse polarity occurs when the wires are incorrectly placed. The simple process to fix this problem is to check the wire connection from the outlet. One can also check the receptacle. Reversed polarity is when the white wire connects to the hot side. And the black wire connects to the neutral side. Swapping this entanglement will solve reverse polarity.
Q. Describe the function of the different colored wires.
The different types of colors of wires signal the different functions they undertake. Primarily, there are seven types of colors that have their coding:
• Black: The black wire is the main power supply source in the circuit. These black wires are not used for ground wires in the hot state or live state.
• Green: This wire connects to the ground terminal. An outlet box contains green wires, and it can only be spread within a panel (electrical).
• Red: Red wire is the second wire. It transmits the live state of the wire. It can be used in different interconnections and is present in a circuit of 220 volts. Moreover, it can either be connected to another red wire or a black wire.
• White/Gray: Neutral wires depict this color. It helps in carrying out the unbalanced load to the terminal. The terminal is located on the ground. The wire can connect itself to its types of wires.
• Blue/Yellow: The wire carries power. Therefore, they use themselves for live wires. Common devices do not have these wires. One can easily find these wires in devices like fans, lights, etc.
Q. Differentiate between a generator and an alternator.
Both mechanisms work on the same basic principle of converting mechanical energy into electrical engineering. We can differentiate them as follows-
• Alternator: An alternator uses a rotating stationary armature, which is magnetic. It releases a higher voltage. In comparison, a stationary magnetic field with an armature that is rotating is used for releasing lower voltage.
• Generator: A generator, on the other hand, uses a revolving conductor rolling onto armatures using brushes and rings. It is used along with a stationary magnetic field to convert Electro-Motive Force (EMF).
Q. What are the different criteria you will keep in mind while selecting a type of wire?
Wires selection is based on several factors such as wire capacity and a gauge of the different wires. If a person uses larger and heavier products, like electrical heaters or furnaces, I will choose a smaller wire gauge. Gauge 6 wire may solve the purpose. It has a higher capacity to carry and handle the current. On the other hand, if I have to choose wires for household objects like lamps and lights, which require a low voltage, I will go for wires with higher gauge values, maybe around 12.
Q. What is the RLC current?
The word RLC is a combination of the three elements of the circuit. These are Resistor (R), inductor (L), and current (C). The circuit is also known as a second-order circuit as it can provide direct current flowing throughout the circuit. And its ability to be characterized by a differential equation of the second order.
Q. What are semiconductors?
Semiconductors are a combination of properties that belong to an electrical conductor, such as copper, and an insulator, like sand. There are different types of semiconductors, which are intrinsic and extrinsic. Extrinsic semiconductors have a further classification into n-type extrinsic semiconductors and p-type extrinsic semiconductors.
Q. Define a Zener diode.
A Zener diode is a semiconducting diode. It helps the current to flow in the opposite direction. Moreover, it uses the desired amount of voltage.
Q. What is a laser diode?
They are compact transistors with more than 2, or even 2, electrical leads. When emission results in amplified photons, the photons in question are confined into the lasing mode. Then the process is said to be lasing. As the photon hits the mirrors inside the laser diode, it gives out a beam that diverges from the laser diode packages.
Q. Define rectifiers and give their different types.
A rectifier is an electrical device. It helps to convert alternating current into direct current. The current inside a rectifier flows in a single direction. The different rectifiers are:
• Half-wave: a type of rectifier that has only a single pn junction
• Full-wave: a type of rectifier that has two pn junctions
Q. What is the difference between NPN and PNP transistors?
Inside an NPN current, two rules state the flow of current:
• If no current flows from A to D, there will be no current flowing from X to Z.
• If there is current flowing from A to D, there will be current that is allowed to flow from X to Z.
On the other hand, in a PNP transistor, there are two rules too. However, they are opposite of those used in the NPN transistors, which means:
• When there is currently flowing from A to D, there is no current that is flowing from X to Z
• Current flows from X to Z when there is no current flow from A to D.
Q. What is a transistor?
A transistor is a semiconducting device that helps interpret electrical signals and powers. It is made up of semiconducting material. It should be connected to at least three terminals through an external circuit. A transistor is also a combination of many n-type and p-type semiconductors.
Q. Why do we use a transistor?
The job of a transistor is to increase the input current. However, it will increase the output. In other words, electric and electrical power increases with the help of transistors.
Q. When we half the resistance, what will be the outcome in a circuit?
The total current will be double its original state.
Q. What will happen in a circuit if the total current in the system is doubled?
Doubling the circuit will result in half resistance.
Q. What will be the voltage outcome in a circuit if the string of resistors is placed in a series?
In a series setup, the resistors will equally divide the proportion of voltage into their respective values.
Q. Differentiate between an analogue and a digital circuit.
- An analogue circuit is a type of circuit that can work on continuous signals that are pre-valued, whereas, in a digital circuit, the signal can exist only in binary, that is, 0 or 1’s.
- There is no conversion of the signal received at the input before the transmission within an analogue circuit. It rather directly proceeds with the different logic operations. It produces an analogue output. On the other hand, before the signal begins its transmission within a digital circuit, the signal converts itself into digital data.
- As analogue circuits require no conversion, there is no probability of losing any form of information. However, during the conversion period in a digital circuit, there is a risk of losing information as the signal is in digital form.
- The final difference is that analogue circuits provide no flexibility. But their digital counterparts promote and have a high range of flexibility to offer to their users.
The Role of Soft Skills and Practical Experience in Electrical Engineering
In addition to technical know-how, recruiters are increasingly placing importance on soft skills when seeking top-notch electrical engineers. Effective communication in group discussion, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are pivotal in the dynamic landscape of electrical engineering, where collaboration and innovation are key. Beyond theoretical proficiency, hands-on experience is highly prized. The ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges sets candidates apart, emphasizing the practical aspect of this field. As you gear up for your electrical engineering interview, showcasing a blend of technical expertise and soft skills will undoubtedly give you a competitive edge over other candidates.
Get assistance in solving Electrical Engineering Questions
There might be times when a particular electrical engineering question doesn’t get solved by you or your classmates. In such cases where you need a reliable source to help you with your homework, you can always turn to Chegg.
Chegg is an online platform wherein you can post your doubts related to electrical engineering or any subject, such as physics, zoology, maths, etc., that you might have and get them solved by our team of experts. You can also get help in preparing for your tests or learn via verified instructor notes.
Summing Up
Before appearing for any interview, it is imperative to prepare all the questions well in advance so that you feel more confident while answering. This article is a broad description of the basic electrical engineering interview questions.
Electrical engineers typically deal with the design, development, and maintenance of equipment that uses electrical circuits to function, as well as the study of electricity and electronics in general. Electrical engineers work in a wide variety of fields, such as computer engineering, telecom, power generation, software development, and medical equipment. Chegg India wishes you all the best for your electrical engineering interview. You’ve got this! Always believe, you’re wired for success!
Related Article: Careers after Electrical Engineering
Frequently Asked Questions
Prepare for an electrical interview by researching the company and job role, making sure you understand the job duties and skills required. Become familiar with the company’s products and services. Look up common electrical interview questions and practice answering them. Prepare your resume and portfolio, and be prepared to discuss your experiences and qualifications. Finally, dress professionally and arrive on time.
Yes, the interviewer might also be interested in your technical knowledge of the field. Technical interview questions can range from how to describe Norton’s Theorem and how to assess the safety of electric circuits to whether you have any field-specific specialities (such as residential or industrial applications, or, say, microelectronics).
Some of the basic questions covered in the Electrical Engineering Interview: Define reverse polarity and the process of fixing it. What is the RLC current? What is the difference between NPN and PNP transistors? Differentiate between an analogue and a digital circuit?
Electrical engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the research, development, and usage of equipment, devices, and systems that rely on electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. It’s certainly an interesting field which covers many important topics such as electricity, resistance, voltage, inductors, capacitors, and electromagnetism.
Absolutely! College projects are valuable assets on your resume, especially in the field of electrical engineering. They showcase your practical application of theoretical knowledge and provide tangible evidence of your skills. A well-documented project demonstrates your ability to handle real-world challenges, work in a team, and deliver results. Recruiters often look for candidates who can apply their academic learning to practical scenarios, making college projects an essential component of your resume. Don’t underestimate the significance of a well-executed college project – it can set you apart and significantly contribute to a positive impression on prospective employers.
Electrical engineers in India have numerous Government Job Opportunities across various sectors. Some prominent avenues include:
1. Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs): Organizations like BHEL, NTPC, PowerGrid, and ONGC regularly recruit electrical engineers for roles in power generation, transmission, and other related fields.
2. Indian Railways: The Indian Railways hires electrical engineers to maintain and upgrade the electrification of railway tracks, signalling systems, and other electrical components.
3. Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL): IOCL recruits electrical engineers for positions related to the design and maintenance of electrical systems in the oil and gas industry.
4. State Electricity Boards: Each state has its own electricity board that recruits electrical engineers to manage power distribution and related activities.
5. Central Power Research Institute (CPRI): CPRI offers opportunities for engineers in electrical power engineering to assist the electrical industry in product development and quality assurance.
6. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL): BEL, a defence electronics company, recruits electrical engineers for roles in the design, research and development of electronic systems, such as Radar and weapon Systems, Communications systems, Electronic Warfare and avionics, Naval Systems, Tank Electronics & Gun Systems, and Civilian products.
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